Petoskey Motors: A Chronology of Cars [1940-1969]
While lacking in reliability and comfort, sales were mainly driven by the low cost of the vehicle. The 22 CID Ecomax engine proved cheap to manufacture and helped to bring the automobile to a wider range of the population.
The simplicity of the small motor combined with a two-speed manual transmission resulted in an inexpensive option for personal mobility. The biggest attraction to the Ace was the versatility of the model. A two door model was the base option, but a four door and delivery truck model was also available.
Critics often cited the Ace for being slow, flimsy, and spartan. But even they cannot deny the practicality of such a vehicle in a nation stricken with poverty. For many people, the Ace was their chance to own a car.